Celebrate Malaysian Flavors with Merdeka Rasa Afternoon Tea: A Tea Pairing Journey by Element Kuala Lumpur and Dilmah

Hi Everyone,

In celebration of Merdeka and Malaysia Day, Element Kuala Lumpur, in collaboration with Dilmah Tea, proudly presents the Merdeka Rasa Afternoon Tea, a thoughtfully curated tea pairing experience that honors Malaysia’s vibrant culinary heritage through a refined and flavor-forward lens.

The phrase Merdeka Rasa, which translates to “freedom of taste”, captures the spirit of this experience — a celebration of the diverse flavors, traditions, and stories that define our Malaysian identity.

Served at TRACE Restaurant & Bar, perched on Level 40 with panoramic views of the Kuala Lumpur skyline, this high tea offers a tribute to local ingredients reimagined with global finesse, beautifully complemented by Dilmah’s premium tea selection.

Guests are welcomed with a refreshing Dilmah’s Rosehip & Hibiscus Iced Tea, a bold and floral welcome drink made with hibiscus, Malaysia’s national flower, blended with citrus and mint. What makes this high tea truly special is its tea pairing concept.

Each sweet and savory item is carefully crafted to complement specific Dilmah blends. Savories pair best with Dilmah’s Brilliant Breakfast Tea, while sweets shine alongside Dilmah’s Jasmine Green Tea. The full set is served in a nostalgic three-tier basket, evoking warmth and Malaysian charm

Crafted by Element Kuala Lumpur’s culinary team, the Merdeka Rasa Afternoon Tea features six savories and five sweet items, each with its own story.

Among the savory highlights is the Pulled Beef Rendang Brisket & Mushroom Vol-au-Vent, where the beef is slow-braised for over six hours in a medley of local spices, offering a deep, robust flavor. The Lobster Roll with Garlic Cheese Sauce, made using fresh Sabah lobster, adds a creamy, indulgent touch to the selection.

On the sweet side, Chef Hafiz Iskandar, the hotel’s Pastry Chef de Partie, shares that one of his proudest creations is the Pandan Cranberries Scone. “I spent nearly two years refining the texture of this scone,” he says. “The pandan lends a uniquely Malaysian aroma, and we serve it with clotted cream and jam for the perfect balance.”

Chef Hafiz also highlights two desserts made using Dilmah teas. “For something light and refreshing, try the Honey Chamomile Jelly,” he explains. “It’s made with Dilmah’s Chamomile Tea, and filled with fresh local fruits. We top it with sengkuang pearls for a chewy, fun texture.”

Meanwhile, the Peach Tea Cream Cheese Mousse, infused with Dilmah’s Peach Tea, is smooth and delicate. The top is adorned in colors inspired by the Jalur Gemilang, paying tribute to the Merdeka spirit.

Other notable items include the Cucumber & Tuna Tataki, Cannellini & Fava Bean Salad in Tart Shell, Crispy Fried Prawn Dumpling, BBQ Grilled Chicken Tortilla Wrap, Passionfruit Bavarois, and Green Spirit Petit Gâteau, all thoughtfully crafted to showcase Malaysian ingredients with a modern twist.

As a special gesture, each set comes with two Dilmah Flavored Green Tea packs, allowing guests to continue their tea journey at home.

The Merdeka Rasa Afternoon Tea is priced at RM168 nett for two persons, available daily from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, from 1 August to 30 September 2025. For dining enquiries, please call 03 2771 3351. To make a reservation, visit Merdeka Rasa Afternoon Tea.

For those looking to extend their celebration, Element Kuala Lumpur also introduces a Merdeka Rasa Room Package. This staycation bundle includes a two-night stay with breakfast for two and one Merdeka Rasa Afternoon Tea set, providing the perfect opportunity to savor the flavors of Malaysia with a view.